Causes of shingles
The exact cause of reactivation of the Varicella zoster virus is not known. Various factors that may alter an individual’s immune system may play a role in the reactivation. Following an initial infection, the virus causes chicken pox and then resides in the ganglia. When reactivated, the virus travels along the nerves that carry the sensation of pain resulting in skin eruptions and pain along the path of the nerve.^1,2  

Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date: Dec17th,08

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• Symptoms of shingles
• Treatment of shingles